First Graphene (ASX:FGR) has begun testing at its research and development laboratory in Manchester, UK, as part of a $3.72 million HyPStore Project targeting next generation hydrogen storage tanks.
The project aims to develop and commercialise novel light-weight impermeable cryogenic tanks, designed for the safe storage and transportation of liquid hydrogen.
Stargate Hydrogen says liquid hydrogen offers higher energy density and is easier to transport and store compared to gaseous hydrogen. Liquid hydrogen also can be stored for longer periods of time without the constant need for high-pressure containment.
First Graphene, which has a market capitalisation of $19.46 million, has begun testing graphene materials provided by Australian Sunlight Group to formulate a graphene-enhanced resin system. This will be tested against the company’s PureGRAPH material.
The addition of graphene nanoplatelets in resin will assist creating an impermeable tank, by forming a protective barrier within the tank structure. This process has demonstrated a reduction in hydrogen permeability by up to 48 times.
First Graphene says the Tinius Olsen Universal Tester measures the performance of raw materials or products using a series of tests, including evaluating tensile, compressive, and flexural strength.
The equipment will be used to test First Graphene’s materials for use in the HyPStore Project during Q1 of the new financial year, as well as support the company’s client base across various sectors in future.
There are nine entities from Australia and the UK involved in HyPStore, which has already begun the manufacture of a prototype Type V tank and developed the necessary means to test key aspects at cryogenic temperatures.
First Graphene is also a part of a 10-month project in partnership with Imperial College London and University College London to support upscaling chemically modified graphene for use in 3D printing of metals.
The project has received a $1.2 million grant from Innovate UK to investigate the use of graphene to improve laser printing processes, including the potential to reduce energy requirements and associated costs.
First Graphene says incorporating graphene into copper metal can enable the material to better absorb energy from lasers, allowing it to melt at a faster rate and lower temperature.
3D printing of metal components is often used in high-end applications, including aerospace and motor sports.
First Graphene says its involvement in the project could help fast-track the technology to market, meeting growing demand for more sustainable products in this industry.
Write to Aaliyah Rogan at Mining.com.au
Images: First Graphene
